Best Tips to Keep Geraniums Blooming

I have had great success growing Geraniums for several years. I don’t claim to be a master gardener or an expert, however I was taught this trick by an eccentric master gardener and it has served me well for many years.

This is the lesson I learned from my eccentric but very talented friend. She said the best tip to keep geraniums blooming all summer long, is to break off the blooms almost as soon as they appear! What???? I was shocked and upset when one day, she started to remove all the beautiful blooms from my plant. Although she explained why, I still wasn’t so sure. However, I’ve never forgotten her or her tips and here’s the results.

First, geraniums are hardy, need less water and enjoy a sunny spot. The front porch gets intense evening sun and they thrive there. In this post I’m referring to potted Geraniums, however most of these tips apply to those planted in the ground as well. You can also see more tips to keep your porches looking fresh all summer long here.

(Posts on The Ponds Farmhouse may contain affiliate links. You can see the full disclosure details here.)

#1 Tip – Deadhead to Keep Geraniums Blooming

This is so super easy to do because they pinch off so easily. Just follow the bloom stem to the point it connects to the larger stem and you will feel a slight nub. Break at the nub and remove the bloom.

You will be resistant to removing a beautiful bloom and honestly you CAN wait until you see it start to fade. But don’t let it linger to long or you’ll slow down the process. Note: When I know I have company coming or plan to photograph my plants, I don’t remove the blooms until they are almost completely spent.

#2 Tip – Remove dead or fading leaves

Just as important as removing the bloom, dead leaves and those that are fading, will continue to draw nutrients from the plant. I make a practice to remove those each time I deadhead the blooms. You also want to remove the leaf at the nub as well.

#3 Tip – Water REGULARLY but not to often

Geraniums don’t require daily watering. Usually 3 times a week will keep them healthy. Obviously, during extreme heat, you may need to give them an extra drink or two. I also, feed my geraniums at least every two weeks for Miracle Grow Plant Food.

#4 Tip – Use your blooms

If you are deadheading your blooms frequently, don’t just toss those lovely flowers. Bring them inside and enjoy the blooms.

#5 Tip – Going on Vacation

Here is another tip by friend shared with me about keeping my geraniums looking good all summer long. Remove all the blooms before you go on vacation. If you plan to be gone for several days, you are not going to miss these blooms anyway. Nutrients will be saved and most likely you’ll return to a plant full of blooms.

A brief Friendship has life changing impact

My friend was a talented designer as well as a master gardener. She shared so many design ideas with me that I still use today in my home decor. She died shortly after I met her but her impact on my design style lives on. In addition, every time I remove a geranium bloom, I think of her.

Thanks so much for stopping by today.

Pin it to remember it